Cities and Towns in Gilmer County, Georgia
Founded in 1832, Gilmer County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Gilmer County was formed from Cherokee County. The city of Ellijay is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Gilmer County has a population of 32,026 and area of 427 square miles (1,106 km²).
List of all cities in Gilmer County, GA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cherry Log, GA | 30522 | 706/762 |
| East Ellijay, GA | 30539 | 706/762 |
| 30540 | 706/762 | |
| Ellijay, GA | 30536 | 706/762 |
| Ellijay, GA | 30540 | 706/762 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gilmer County, Georgia
Ellijay
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.6 square miles
- Population: 1,737 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30536, 30540
- Latitude: 34.6945° N
- Longitude**: 84.4821° W
Location and History
Ellijay is the county seat of Gilmer County, located in the northern part of Georgia in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The town was established in 1834 and has a rich history rooted in its Cherokee origins, as the name “Ellijay” comes from the Cherokee word for “many waters.” Ellijay became a significant center for trade and agriculture in the 19th century, particularly known for apple production, which remains a major part of its economy today. The town is often referred to as the “Apple Capital of Georgia,” and its annual Georgia Apple Festival attracts thousands of visitors each October. Over the years, Ellijay has maintained its small-town charm while growing into a hub for outdoor recreation, with its proximity to the Appalachian Trail, the Cohutta Wilderness, and several rivers making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ellijay is served by the Gilmer County School District, with Gilmer High School being a central educational institution known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Tabor House & Civil War Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region’s history during the Civil War era. Another key site is the historic Gilmer County Courthouse, a prominent building in the downtown area that reflects the town’s rich heritage. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking, particularly along the Cartecay and Ellijay Rivers. The annual Georgia Apple Festival, held in Ellijay, is one of the town’s most significant events, celebrating its agricultural roots with crafts, food, and entertainment, and drawing visitors from all over the Southeast.
East Ellijay
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.0 square miles
- Population: 707 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30536, 30540
- Latitude: 34.6823° N
- Longitude: 84.4679° W
Location and History
East Ellijay is a small town located adjacent to Ellijay in Gilmer County. The town was incorporated in 1907 and has historically served as a commercial and residential extension of its larger neighbor. East Ellijay grew alongside Ellijay, benefiting from the region’s booming apple industry and serving as a local hub for trade and agriculture. The town is strategically located at the junction of several major highways, including U.S. Route 76 and Georgia State Route 515, making it a gateway for visitors heading into the North Georgia mountains. Despite its small size, East Ellijay has developed a reputation as a vibrant community with a strong local economy driven by tourism, retail, and agriculture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
East Ellijay shares the Gilmer County School District with Ellijay, with students attending the same schools, including Gilmer High School. The town is home to several key landmarks, including the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce, which plays a vital role in promoting local businesses and tourism. East Ellijay is also known for its proximity to several outdoor attractions, such as the Chattahoochee National Forest and Amicalola Falls State Park, both of which offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The town’s location makes it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area, and it hosts a variety of local events throughout the year, including the Georgia Apple Festival and the Apple Arts Festival, which highlight the area’s rich agricultural heritage and community spirit.
Cherry Log
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Not officially incorporated
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of the latest estimates)
- Zip Codes: 30522
- Latitude: 34.7820° N
- Longitude: 84.3770° W
Location and History
Cherry Log is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Gilmer County, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. The community was named after the cherry trees that were once abundant in the area, and it has a history that is deeply tied to the logging industry, which played a significant role in the region’s development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Cherry Log is known for its scenic beauty, with its location along Georgia State Route 515 making it a popular stop for travelers exploring the North Georgia mountains. The community is characterized by its rustic charm, with many cabins and vacation homes dotting the landscape, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in the mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cherry Log does not have its own school system; students typically attend schools in nearby Ellijay, including Gilmer High School. The community is home to a few notable landmarks, such as the Pink Pig, a well-known local restaurant that has been serving Southern barbecue for over 60 years and is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Another key site is the Bigfoot Museum, which attracts visitors with its unique exhibits on the legendary creature said to inhabit the surrounding forests. The area around Cherry Log is popular for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, with the Benton MacKaye Trail passing through the community. The annual Cherry Log Festival, though small, is a beloved event that celebrates the area’s history and community spirit with crafts, food, and music.
Talking Rock
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 64 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30175
- Latitude: 34.5140° N
- Longitude: 84.5060° W
Location and History
Talking Rock is a small town located in the southern part of Gilmer County, just north of Jasper. The town was incorporated in 1883 and has one of the smallest populations in the state of Georgia. The name “Talking Rock” is believed to be derived from the Native American language, possibly referring to the sounds of the creek that runs through the area. The town developed in the late 19th century as a stop along the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad, serving as a hub for the local timber and agricultural industries. Over the years, Talking Rock has retained its historic charm, with many of its original buildings still standing, making it a popular destination for those interested in history and rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Talking Rock does not have its own school system, with students typically attending schools in nearby Jasper or Ellijay. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Talking Rock Schoolhouse Teaching Museum, which offers a glimpse into early 20th-century education in rural Georgia. Another significant site is the Talking Rock General Store, which has been a central part of the community for over a century, serving as a gathering place for residents. The town is also known for its annual Heritage Days Festival, which celebrates its history with crafts, live music, and demonstrations of traditional skills. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and exploring the Talking Rock Nature Preserve, which features trails and scenic views of the North Georgia mountains.
Cartecay
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 50 (as of the latest estimates)
- Zip Codes: 30536
- Latitude: 34.6900° N
- Longitude: 84.3830° W
Location and History
Cartecay is a small, unincorporated community located in eastern Gilmer County, along the banks of the Cartecay River. The name “Cartecay” is derived from the Cherokee language, meaning “bread valley,” reflecting the area’s rich agricultural history. The community was established in the early 19th century and has remained a rural, agricultural area ever since. Cartecay is known for its scenic beauty, with the Cartecay River being a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The community is largely composed of farms, orchards, and rural homesteads, with a strong emphasis on preserving the natural environment and traditional way of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cartecay is part of the Gilmer County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Ellijay. The community is home to several notable landmarks, including the historic Cartecay Methodist Church, which has been serving the community for over a century and remains a central gathering place for residents. The Cartecay River itself is one of the most significant natural landmarks, attracting outdoor enthusiasts with its clear waters and scenic surroundings. The Cartecay Vineyards, located near the community, is another key attraction, offering wine tastings and tours in a picturesque setting. The annual Cartecay River Experience event celebrates the community’s connection to the river with activities such as kayaking, tubing, and nature walks, highlighting the area’s natural beauty and strong sense of community.
Map of Cities in Gilmer County, GA
